Posted by on 1/31/2017
Actuonix Motion Devices is proud to announce the launch of our new line of actuators, the T16 track actuator or as we call them around here "tracktuator". As the newest member of the Actuonix family of products, the T16 has been designed to push the boundaries of automation and highlights our company's commitment to leadership and innovation in the micro-motion marketplace.
We have designed and engineered this new line of products specifically to meet the growing demand for tiny actuators across a wide variety of industries. With it's shorter overall length and side-load tolerance, the T16 is ideal for thousands of applications in robotics, medical devices and automation as well as DIY projects.
Why Track Actuators
We're always on top of what's happening in the linear motion industry. We've been noticing a demand for micro track actuators for some time now. This is for a variety of reasons.
Micro linear actuators, although incredibly useful, fall short in a couple of key areas. By design, linear actuators are quite long as the shaft needs space to retract into the actuator. Track actuators are significantly shorter for the same amount of travel, effectively saving space in your project.
Track actuators excel in another key area - side loading. Micro linear actuators are only tolerant to minimal side loads. Track actuators are ideal for applications where there is going to be a more significant side load on the device.
Available Models
Currently, there are 18 new models of track actuators available. They're offered in 100mm, 200mm and 300mm strokes. The 300mm track actuator represents our longest stroke product yet. They are offered with the same gearing options as our P16 line, 22:1, 63:1 and 256:1.
As with our P16 lineup, we're offering them as a -P or an -S series. The -P series offer analog position feedback the can be used with an external controller. These can also be used with our Linear Actuator Control Board, giving you the ability to control it via USB. The LAC board allows you to adjust speed, sensitivity an set stroke end-limits right from the board. You can buy the LAC board for half price ($20) with the purchase of a -P series actuator.
The S series features end of stroke limit switches that will turn the unit off if run to the end of it's stroke. These can be controlled via a dual pole dual throw switch or relay. For use with radio control, you can use a brushed reversible DC motor controller.
Choosing The Correct Track Actuator
With 18 new models available, it may be challenging to choose the correct track actuator for your application. To help you out, here's a demo video showing you how fast our P16 actuators move with all three gearing options.
If you have any questions about this new line, or need help choosing the correct device for your needs, call or email our sales department via our contact page. We will be happy to assist you.